In the film, Dr Newport warns that the bug is extremely contagious and that people who have caught it should stay at home for at least 72 hours after their symptoms have cleared.

People with symptoms should not visit their GP as this may spread the virus. Instead, they should call their GP or the non-emergency NHS number, 111.

Speaking after the filming, she said:

“When people start to feel better again, they naturally want to get out and about. But they may not realise that they remain contagious for at least three days after their symptoms have cleared.

“That’s why our film urges people who’ve had the bug to stay at home and stop it spreading.”

The video also calls on sufferers to help stop winter vomiting in its tracks by:

Washing their hands thoroughly

Not sharing towels or flannels

Disinfecting all surfaces

Symptoms include diarrhoea and vomiting plus flu-like aches and pains. The bug is not dangerous for most people but can cause serious problems for frail and elderly people, and anyone who already has a health condition.

Therefore, it is very important to limit its spread in places like hospitals and care homes.

People with underlying health problems should seek advice by calling their GP practice or 111.

The video shows Dr Newport chatting with 66-year-old John Paley, who was playing the part of a concerned patient whose friend had contracted the virus.

Mr Paley, from Codnor Park, Ripley is chair of the Patient Participation Group at Ripley’s Jessop Medical Practice.

Health leaders have produced an online advice film in a bid to prevent an outbreak of the norovirus vomiting bug in Southern Derbyshire. The two-and-a-half minute video features Dr Sheila Newport, Chair of NHS Southern Derbyshire Clinical Commis